Missouri State University’s linguistics program will host Dr. Michael R. Marlo for MSU’s Fall 2024 Linguistics Colloquium event 12-1 p.m. (CT) Nov. 14, 2024, via Zoom.

Marlo is an associate professor of English at the University of Missouri and editor of the Contemporary African Linguistics series of Language Science Press.

His presentation is titled “Meru tonal dialectology: a new collaborative project in African linguistics.”

According to event coordinator Dr. Antoinette Barffour, Marlo’s presentation will focus on the tonal systems of Bantu languages, specifically the Luyia language, which is spoken in western Kenya and eastern Uganda. 

“In this session of the colloquium, we are honored to have as speaker Dr. Marlo, whose research centers on under-studied African languages,” said Barffour, associate professor of French and applied linguistics at MSU.

“Several indigenous African languages are endangered, and this problem is in part attributable to the fact that these languages are grossly under-studied,” Barffour explained. “We strongly encourage all students to join our colloquium, as it offers an opportunity for them to gain insights into the structures and use of human languages. Participants will appreciate the cultural value in learning about a lesser known language and its speakers.”

This virtual event is open to all students, faculty, staff and anyone interested in these areas of study.

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